I never saw the original trilogy in the theater, but I definitely grew up with them. My dad was a fan, and I was raised as a fan. I initially liked the prequels (as a kid) but once their fun wore off and I thought critically about the story, I got really disappointed. I read some EU material, and liked less than I read (probably the 80/20 rule). But I kept on liking the core of Star Wars.
I think that TFA is a good stepping stone for the rest of the trilogy, but unlike A New Hope it very clearly says "I'm part of a trilogy!" So I feel that TFA doesn't
quite stand on its own as well as its predecessors, but definitely feels like a proper Star Wars film. I'm glad Lucasfilm/Disney didn't tie their hands too tightly, so the story really could go anywhere from here. The casting was very good, even if certain characters got less screen time than I'd hoped. I watched it in 3D IMAX and felt that the 3D made it harder to pay attention because there was so much more motion. Any of the plot holes that I noticed weren't huge problems, and any of those I've heard from others are predominantly opinion/preference -level—rather than glaring plot holes. I admit that the new doomsday weapon isn't scientific ... but it's still pretty cool (not that Star Wars was ever about science).
Edit: And I do plan to see it in the regular theater so I can pick up all the details I missed.
Much like Keleth, I left wanting to play a Star Wars roleplaying game almost immediately.
Last edited December 28, 2015 3:24 pm